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Top picks in San Diego

Performing arts

You seek out performing arts that challenge your perspective and demand your full attention.

Based on 653 Opinions
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01
La Jolla Playhouse image 1
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Intimate theater features excellent acoustics and a thrust stage for close views. Enjoy world-class performances with innovative plays that often reach Broadway. Cozy seating and an on-site bar create a welcoming atmosphere for mingling.

An intimate theater with great talent hosts innovative plays that often move on to Broadway. The venue offers world-class performances in a beautiful setting.

People are saying

"I saw amazing theater performances with impeccable quality."

Good to know

1

Parking at La Jolla Playhouse is free and included with the performance.

2

The shuttle from parking to the theater is convenient but may not always be available.

3

World premieres and new works are regularly showcased at La Jolla Playhouse.

02
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Small venue with intimate seating offers close views and great acoustics. Original musicals and radio plays showcase innovative performances and impressive voice acting. Friendly staff enhance the cozy, welcoming atmosphere.

An intimate theater with only three rows and about 75 seats makes every spot a winner. Productions include original musicals with street theatre flair and impressive voice acting in radio plays, all supported by friendly employees.

People are saying

"The performing arts venue felt so intimate, with no bad seats."

Good to know

1

The performance starts at 7 pm, not the usual 8 pm.

2

Parking is easy and free, with plenty available.

3

There is a slight uphill walk to the theater entrance.

03
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Historic theater boasts beautiful architecture and excellent acoustics for a classic performing arts experience. Seating is comfortable with great sightlines, creating an intimate and elegant atmosphere. Lively lobby and concession areas add energy during intermission.

Beautiful old theater building with a well kept and beautiful interior. The space offers a classic atmosphere for performances.

People are saying

"The seats for the performing arts are so comfortable."

Good to know

1

Parking is available nearby with discounts for event attendees.

2

Reservations for parking are recommended to ensure availability.

3

The restrooms at the Balboa Theatre are not easily accessible.

04
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Medium amphitheater offers intimate setting with excellent acoustics and comfortable seating. Architecture blends elegance and accessibility, creating a cozy atmosphere ideal for classical and acoustic shows. Venue hosts diverse performances, including musical and speaker events.

An intimate theater with excellent acoustics creates a close and clear experience for performances. The venue hosts a variety of shows, including musical presentations and speaker events, in a beautiful setting.

People are saying

"I found the performing arts venue to be beautiful and intimate."

Good to know

1

Parking is available nearby, but street parking may require a short walk.

2

The venue hosts a variety of events, including talks from NASA engineers and Grammy-winning artists.

3

The auditorium offers an intimate experience with no bad seats.

05
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Small venue with intimate theater holds about 40 people, creating a cozy atmosphere. Improv shows feature funny formats and silly games that engage diverse audiences. Space blends top-notch instruction with local talent, making creativity and humor thrive.

A small theater on the second floor hosts improv shows with various funny formats. It creates a space where people play silly games, laugh a lot, and connect, while also guiding students through their improv journey.

People are saying

"This place is the heart of the improv scene, fostering community and talent."

Good to know

1

The ticket price is very affordable for all shows.

2

There is plentiful parking nearby, making it easy to visit.

3

The Friday night short form show is a popular choice.

06
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Spanish Colonial Revival architecture creates a historic venue with elegant arches and tiled facades. Intimate seating and excellent acoustics make it perfect for plays, musicals, and dance. The cozy space supports local performing arts and young actors, fostering a personal, inviting atmosphere.

A historic theater built in 1935 offers a cozy setting with excellent acoustics that enhance plays, musicals, dance, and music performances. The intimate atmosphere suits productions by young actors and local performing arts groups.

People are saying

"I thought the theater was a great place to catch a play."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited; arrive early to secure a spot.

2

The theater is not handicap accessible due to stairways.

3

The theatre offers mail-in tickets and will-call options.

07
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Small theater space offers an intimate atmosphere perfect for up-and-coming playwrights. Performances feature incredible voices and heartfelt energy. Venue supports community with meeting space and restrooms.

Intimate plays take center stage in a small theater with incredible voices. The venue also offers meeting space and restrooms, supporting community theater performances.

Good to know

1

Open mic sessions occur on the 4th Monday of each month.

2

Expect a variety of performances including magic, comedy, and dance at open mic nights.

3

The theater features a small stage for intimate performances.

08
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Small, intimate theater offers comfortable seating and excellent acoustics for emotional performances. Candlelit stage and thoughtful decor create a magical atmosphere. Mezzanine level ensures great views from every seat.

A beautiful, well-maintained theater offers a personal experience with its smaller size and large seats with ample legroom. The facility supports a variety of productions and provides top-notch comfort and services.

People are saying

"The Joan B. Kroc Theatre is a beautiful and intimate community theater."

Good to know

1

Parking is free and easy at the venue.

2

All seats have a good view of the stage.

3

The venue is clean and well-maintained.

09
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Historical theater offers intimate setting with phenomenal acoustics and beautiful decor. Skilled performers deliver moving musical experience including string quartets by candlelight. Seating feels cozy but can be cramped.

An intimate venue with a beautifully renovated historic setting hosts music, comedy, and other events. Performances include string quartets by candlelight and ensembles, creating a moving musical experience.

People are saying

"It's such an intimate venue for performing arts."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited to street parking, which can be challenging during events.

2

Plan for at least 45 minutes to find parking before the show starts.

3

Seats are assigned upon arrival, so arrive early to secure your spot.

10
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Outdoor shopping center offers diverse stores and a large AMC theater with discounted tickets and IMAX screens. Theater feels nostalgic and family-friendly, creating comfort and excitement. Weekdays are peaceful, weekends lively and crowded near the theater.

Well kept theater with a strong sense of nostalgia and family-friendly atmosphere. Visits bring a feeling of excitement and comfort reminiscent of childhood.

People are saying

"I found the performing arts here to be awesome."

Good to know

1

Parking is generally available, but can be crowded on weekends and holidays.

2

AMC Palm Promenade offers discounted ticket prices before 4pm and flat rates on Tuesdays.

3

Expect the theater to be crowded with kids and teens on Fridays and weekends.

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Concert hall offers exceptional acoustics and plush seating in an elegant atmosphere. Views from most seats are excellent, enhancing every performance. Easy access from the freeway and a well-kept environment make it ideal for arts lovers.

The theater stands out as a masterpiece of craftsmanship and design with excellent sound quality. It offers great access from the freeway and maintains a beautiful, well-kept environment for performances.

People are saying

"I found the theater's gorgeous design and intricate details breathtaking."

Good to know

1

Parking is available across the street, but can be challenging during events.

2

The venue has limited ladies' restrooms, leading to long lines at intermission.

3

Expect a full house during popular performances, so arrive early.

12
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Renovated hall offers state-of-the-art acoustics and a stunning visual backdrop with detailed ceilings and walls. World-class orchestra delivers impeccable sound and sight lines. Venue creates a modern, glamorous atmosphere perfect for music lovers and special outings.

Immaculate detail on the walls and ceiling creates a stunning visual backdrop. The venue hosts high-caliber, well-curated performances and offers a state-of-the-art entertainment experience in a beautifully restored old theater.

People are saying

"The theater's glamorous interior is a stunning visual feast."

Good to know

1

Free parking is available at the symphony building.

2

Food options are available at the venue with plenty of choices.

3

Plan for parking ahead of time as it can get busy.

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Small historic theater offers an intimate setting with a black box space. It hosts unique local plays and brilliant musicals like Puffs and Ride the Cyclone. Cozy atmosphere suits intimate performances well.

A historic theater with a black box space hosts intimate performances and unique local plays like Puffs and Ride the Cyclone. The venue suits small audiences and showcases fun, brilliant musicals.

People are saying

"It's a nice small theater, perfect for intimate performances."

Good to know

1

The theater hosts performances every weekend, including this one.

2

The Full Monty is a featured performance this weekend.

3

Puffs and Ride the Cyclone are popular local shows currently running.

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Dueling pianos deliver versatile talent with any requested song, blending music and comedy for a dynamic experience. Large bar and lively crowds create a festive atmosphere full of energy and fun.

Musicians show versatile talent by playing any requested song across various instruments. Performances mix musical skill with humor, creating an engaging and dynamic experience.

People are saying

"The musicians here are so talented and engaging."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger parties to secure a table.

2

There is a cover charge to enter the venue, so plan accordingly.

3

Happy hour offers $3 off starters, making it a great time to visit.

15
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Beautiful grounds and heated indoor pools create a welcoming space. Residents enjoy live entertainment like Casa Chorale and theater shows. Active social clubs and classes foster strong friendships and a safe, supportive community.

Musical events feature a continuous variety of performances including the Casa Chorale and combo playing combined pieces. Theater shows by residents and weekend concerts add to the diverse performing arts offerings.

People are saying

"I loved the musical events and continuous variety of performances."

Good to know

1

The weekly Sunday Champagne Brunch is a popular event for residents and guests.

2

Monthly musical performances feature professional musicians playing a variety of tunes.

3

Residents can borrow from a collection of over 200 jigsaw puzzles available on-site.

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Intimate venue shines with excellent acoustics and fantastic stage views. Historic theater adds a retro vibe and cozy feel. Multiple bars and a VIP area keep energy high and comfort top-notch.

Historic theater offers a cozy setting with a retro vibe. Shows have good sound quality and the space feels well-preserved and inviting.

People are saying

"The live music here is outstanding with great sound and lights."

Good to know

1

Parking is free but can be challenging during events.

2

The entrance is located at the back of the venue.

3

No re-entry is allowed once you enter the venue.

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Pop-up venue offers intimate seating and an elevated stage for close-up views. Performances shine with spectacular lighting and energetic dancing. Cozy theater vibe keeps shows lively and engaging despite the tight space.

Cozy atmosphere fills the small theater, making every seat a good one. The setting looks like a traditional theater from outside, and the performances stay entertaining even with unexpected elements.

People are saying

"The performing arts here are wonderfully fun and entertaining."

Good to know

1

It is advisable to go early or use a ride-share service to find parking close by.

2

The venue is located in a sketchy neighborhood with a large homeless encampment across the street.

3

There is security at the venue, and the area is gated off.

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